MidiLand S4 4060M Review

Conclusion

The S4 4060 speaker system stands as MidiLand's high powered 2.1 system, weighing in at 60W total. It is a step up in power from the smaller 3050M system, though the satellites and sub driver remain the same size. At the same time, they have increased the installation options over the smaller system by offering the option of mounting the control module inside a drive bay.

The installation process for the system remained consistent with previous experiences with MidiLand products. The manual, though concise, was detailed in both instructions and specifications. This demonstrates a commitment to the product that is also supported by a three year limited warranty. From there, it is important to look at what the system is trying to do.

The higher power levels in the system definitely make it louder than the 3050M. However, as the drivers have not changed, the system has less headroom and clipping is more noticeable as the volume rises. The high power also leaves little room for the tonal controls to be very effective.

The control module offers a unique option in that in can be installed in a drive bay. However, it ties up real estate in the computer case by requiring both an open slot and open bay. For those that have the room, it can be a nice feature, though the metallic finish will stand out somewhat. When the box is not mounted in the case, it definitely needs to be secured, as it is too light to hold itself down if there is any cable tension.

The many similarities between this system and the 3050M lead it to be compared to its little brother. The acoustics of the system are reduced by the efforts to bring more power in. At $99 estimated street price, the system does not quite achieve the power it tries for. Sonically, the smaller system (3050M) has better matched components as the satellites will not be overdriven by the higher power. It also carries a lower price tag. Mounting the control module in the computer does save desk real estate, though it ties up more valuable space in a case. It has a high gimmick factor; those that want it will enjoy it, while those that don't need it will most likely be bothered by it.

In conclusion, the system does have the power to make the user sit up and take notice. It sacrifices its tonal quality somewhat to achieve this power, and users looking for a more musical system would be well advised to take a second look at its little brother. The tonal controls included with the system do not seem to form a strong ensemble as the power seems to battle both with the nature of the speakers and the choices in frequencies affected by the bass and treble. For the power hungry that don't want to drop big buck on a large system, the 4060M has a home. However, for those looking more for acoustic quality, they would be advised to consider other options.